What can be done to improve food production on the African continent?
RT: Much can be done, and it is already happening. Food production is increasing – the higher prices in Africa are not caused by a supply shock. But agriculture has to grow faster. Use of better seeds, more fertilizer, and better methods of cultivation can double yields. More use of conservation tillage can assure that available water reaches the plants in drought-prone, rainfed areas. Investment in research can bring improved varieties, and better approaches to extension can help farmers adopt them. Cost effective and well-managed irrigation schemes can bring reliable water supply and support production of high-value crops. More freely flowing trade across national boundaries helps both producers and consumers. New approaches to risk management such as weather based index insurance can help farmers cope with uncertainty. What is the World Bank doing to respond to these higher food prices in the short- and long-term? RT: The World Bank is working with African countries to assist with s
